3 Days Trek in Pokhara – Best 3 Day Trek Pokhara for Beginners
Trip Overview
The Himalaya offers some of the most spectacular trekking experiences in the world. Are you dreaming of hiking in the Himalayas but also thinking it may take many days of trekking. It is not 100% truth.
The 3 days trek in Pokhara can give you breathtaking views, authentic Nepali culture, and the serenity of the Himalaya which all without needing a long vacation as well as strenuous effort.
Pokhara is often called the gateway to the Annapurna region. It is truly a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker short on time, 3 days trek in Pokhara offer a taste of everything Nepal has to offer.
Why Choose a 3 Days Trek in Pokhara?
Pokhara is more than just a pretty lakeside city. It’s your gateway to the majestic Annapurna range. A 3 days trek in Pokhara is perfect if:
- You have limited time.
- You’re new to trekking.
- You want to avoid altitude sickness.
- You crave mountain views without days of hiking.
Best Time to Go for a 3 Days Trek
The weather can make or break your trekking experience. Luckily, Pokhara’s short treks are doable almost year-round.
Best Seasons:
- Spring (March to May): Clear skies, rhododendron blooms.
- Autumn (September to November): Best mountain views and weather.
- Winter (December to February): Cold but peaceful trails.
- Monsoon (June to August): Lush greenery but rain fall sometimes may disturb while hiking.
Top 3 Trek Routes for 3 Days Trek in Pokhara
Now comes the exciting part: which trek should you choose?
We’ve picked the top three treks that you can complete in three days:
- Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- Dhampus-Australian Camp Trek
- Ghadruk Trek
Each route offers something unique—from sunrise over the Himalayas to peaceful forests and cultural villages.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (3 Days)
Highlights:
- Famous sunrise view over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill
- Walk through rhododendron forests and Gurung/Magar villages
- Suitable for beginners and families
Itinerary:
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara Nayapul. Trek to Ulleri, 6 hours.
Day 2: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2874m), 5 hours.
Day 3: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3210m) for sunrise, return trek to Naypaul/Ulleri, 7/5 drive back to Pokhara.
Dhampus-Australian Camp Trek (3 Days)
- Spectacular vistas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri,
- Sunrise views from Dhampus and Australian Camp.
- Forest trails through terraced fields, rhododendron, oak, and pine forests
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Phedi. Trek to Dhampus, 3/4 hours.
Day 2: Trek from Dhampus to Australian Camp (about 3-4 hours) ascending through rhododendron and oak forests.
Day 3: Trek down from Australian Camp to Kande, 1 hour enjoying views of Pokhara valley and surrounding mountains. Drive back to Pokhara
Ghandruk Trek (3 Days)
Highlights:
- Visit the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk, known for its culture and mountain views
- Ideal for those seeking a gentle trek with cultural immersion
- Views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre
Itinerary:
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, trek to Ghandruk, 5/6 hours.
Day 2: Explore Ghandruk, trek to Landruk or Tolka, 4 hours.
Day 3: Trek to Phedi via Dhampus, 3/4 hours, drive back to Pokhara
Comparison Between 3 Trekking Routes
Aspect | Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (3 days) | Ghandruk Trek (3 days) | Dhampus-Australian Camp Trek (3 days) |
Location & Route | Starts from Nayapul passes through Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, ends near Ghandruk drive to Pokhara | Starts from Nayapul goes to Ghandruk village, a traditional Gurung village, Landruk, Tokla, Pothana, Dhampus, Phedi drive to Pokhara | Starts from Phedi, Dhampus village, goes to Australian Camp, known for panoramic views of Annapurna Kande drive to Pokhara |
Main Highlights | Sunrise view from Poon Hill (3210 m) with panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other peaks; cultural experience in Gurung and Magar villages | Cultural immersion in Gurung village; beautiful mountain views; easy trails suitable for beginners | Panoramic mountain views including Annapurna and Machhapuchhre; lush rhododendron forests; less crowded trails |
Difficulty Level | Moderate Challenge; involves uphill hiking with some altitude acclimatization (max altitude ~3210 m) | Easy to moderate; suitable for beginners and families; lower altitude compared to Poon Hill trek | Easy to Moderate, less altitude than Poon Hill trek, suitable for beginners and families |
Cultural Experience | Strong cultural exposure to Gurung and Magar communities along the trail | Rich Gurung culture in Ghandruk village, including traditional architecture and lifestyle | Cultural experience in Dhampus village and surrounding areas |
Scenery | Himalayan mountain panoramas, rhododendron forests, terraced fields | Mountain views, village life, terraced fields, and local culture | Forest trails, mountain views, less touristy and more tranquil |
Each trek provides a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural exposure but differs mainly in route, difficulty, and specific highlights. The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is the best choice for iconic mountain views, Dhampus-Australian Camp for tranquility and nature, and Ghandruk Trek for cultural immersion with easier hiking.
Local Culture Experience
One of the best parts of trekking in Pokhara is staying in local tea houses. You get:
- Warm hospitality
- Insight into Gurung and Magar culture
- Home-cooked dal bhat (Nepali meal) and other cuisines
It’s like visiting an old friend’s house in the mountains—humble yet heartwarming.
Foods to Try During the Trek
Trekking food in Nepal is more comforting than gourmet—but it hits the spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Dal Bhat Tarkari: Energy-packed lentils, rice, and vegetables
- Tibetan Bread & Honey: Perfect for breakfast
- Thukpa: A warm noodle soup ideal for chilly evenings
Hydrate with warm teas like ginger lemon honey to keep your throat and energy up.
Physical Fitness and Trek Difficulty
You don’t need to be an athlete, but some walking stamina helps. Expect:
- 4–6 hours of walking daily
- Moderate uphills and downhills
- Altitudes below 3,000 meters
If you can walk around your neighborhood for a couple of hours, you can do a 3 days trek in Pokhara.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trek
- Start early to avoid afternoon clouds
- Carry cash—no ATMs in the mountains
- Learn a few Nepali greetings (like “Namaste”)
- Respect local customs and dress modestly
- And remember, slow and steady wins the mountain trail.
Cost of 3 Day Trek in Pokhara
The cost of a 3-day trek in Pokhara varies widely depending on the trek chosen, group size, and services included. For the updated reasonable 3 day in Pokhara, please contact Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expedition by email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at +9779851203181.
Final Thoughts
A 3 days trek in Pokhara is like a short story that stays with you forever. The stunning landscapes, the humble villages, the sounds of the forest—all blend into a memorable journey.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, this is the perfect way to taste the Himalayas without a big commitment.
So pack your bag, tie your boots, and let Pokhara steal your heart—one step at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the easiest 3 days trek in Pokhara?
The Dhampus-Australian Camp trek is the easiest, with gentle trails and close-up mountain views.
2. Is a 3 days trek in Pokhara suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s perfect for beginners. The trails are short, safe, and have plenty of resting spots.
3. Do I need a trekking permit for these short treks?
Yes. You’ll need a TIMS card and ACAP permit, even for short treks. These help with safety and conservation.
4. Can I do the trek solo?
You can trek solo, but for safety, cultural insights, and convenience advised to guided trek organize by registered trek company.
5. What kind of accommodation is available on these treks?
Mostly tea houses and local homestays. They offer basic rooms, hearty meals, and warm hospitality.